The way most of us work has changed fundamentally over the last five years, and flexible work arrangements have changed from being a rare perk to an expectation. According to research by Gallup, 55% of workers in remote-capable jobs have a hybrid work pattern, with 26% fully remote and just 19% in office.

Work locations for US employees with remote-capable jobs (source: Gallup)

For companies seeking to attract and retain high-performing employees, it’s now become essential to adopt flexible practices–and that means they need flexible work technology.

The rising demand for flexible work options

Job seekers want more flexibility, evidenced by the number of applications job openings receive. According to LinkedIn, job postings that offer remote work attract 2.8 times more applicants.

It’s not just about attracting applicants, however. Flexible work options are beneficial to all employees. Balancing professional responsibilities with personal commitments is particularly valuable - whether for parents juggling childcare or workers who enjoy independent travel. Working from home also helps with sustainability, taking commuting vehicles off the road.

Technology as the backbone of flexible work

Working flexibly isn’t possible unless you have the right technology in place. You need the right communication tools, mobile device management software, and cloud-based software in order to accommodate offsite employees. (And, of course, the hardware.)

Communication tools

Flexible work environments rely on effective communication. Employees need tools to support real-time collaboration, no matter their location. Communication tools allow teams to stay connected, share updates, and manage tasks. Including everything from instant messaging to video conferencing, these tools allow employees to work productively and without delay.

It’s not just internal communication, either. Having the right suite of tools in place means your sales teams can call leads while on the road, or your marketers can keep an eye on emails while at the latest conference.

Mobile Device Management (MDM)

One of the most important technologies for flexible businesses is mobile device management (MDM). This technology allows employees to access company resources securely from their devices without compromising data security.

Key features of MDM technology include:

Device security
Enabling security policies like password requirements, encryption, and remote wipe capabilities.

Application management
Allows IT teams to install and control apps, updates, and access permissions.

Remote monitoring and control
IT administrators can monitor device usage and troubleshoot issues remotely.

Data protection
Sensitive business information remains secure, even if devices are compromised, stolen, or lost.

Flexible work technology — Remote work and flexible work is highly appreciated by most employees

Cloud-based software

Cloud-based tools are indispensable for flexible work environments and offer unparalleled access to essential software - no matter where employees are based. From customer relationship management (CRM) systems and project management platforms, to accounting and HR systems, organizations need to ensure that all business-critical applications are accessible no matter where an employee is based.

Additionally, cloud-based solutions eliminate the need for costly servers on-site. This reduces overhead costs while also increasing efficiency. A cloud setup also means that businesses can scale operations more easily, as all the hardware requirements are handled by the provider.

Flexible work technology in recruitment

So, how can you use these tools as part of your recruitment process, and show potential applicants how committed to flexible work you are?

Here are a few ways in which flexible work technology can be used in recruitment:

Applicant tracking systems
Tools like Oleeo’s applicant tracking system help businesses improve their hiring process. The software uses data-driven insights and automation to identify candidates with the right motivations and qualifications. You can also schedule interviews through these platforms, streamlining the process to accommodate both the applicant and your HR team’s schedules.

Virtual careers fairs
These allow businesses to connect with talent online. This opens the event to those who might not be able to access it in person due to geographical boundaries, personal commitments, or existing job roles. It also shows potential employees that the organization is committed to flexibility from the start.

Remote onboarding processes
Remote onboarding processes with secure document-sharing platforms and video conferencing help new hires integrate into their new roles regardless of their location. It also allows the process to be done at a time that suits the new employee, rather than having to stick to strict office hours to meet with HR in person.

With a tech-driven approach from day one, you can create a positive candidate experience and attract top-tier talent - no matter where they’re based.

Another way to improve flexibility is through outsourcing recruitment tasks to RPO recruitment services (Recruitment Process Outsourcing). This allows organizations to scale their hiring efforts quickly while being adaptable to a fluctuating workforce.

By using RPO solutions, companies can access specialized expertise and top-level recruitment technologies, enabling them to attract the right candidates more efficiently. This level of flexibility means the recruitment process is both quick and effective, while also allowing businesses to stay agile and respond to changing workforce demands.

All of these tools and strategies reinforce a message of flexibility. It shows that the whole organization has flexible work ingrained in its culture, helping the business to stand out itself in a competitive market.

Employer branding, flexibility, and the competitive advantage

Simply having the right technology in place isn’t enough, however. You need to show it off, and make sure the notion of flexible work is embedded within your very brand.

As more and more job seekers are prioritizing flexibility, businesses that show themselves to be flexible, tech-enabled employers have an advantage. Having and showcasing policies on remote work, flexible hours, and hybrid models make them stand out as desirable employers. Equally, investments in tech-enabled solutions like remote device management and secure communication platforms further enhance their appeal.

By promoting flexibility, companies strengthen their reputation as an employer of choice. Over time, this commitment to flexibility and technology leads to higher employee retention and a more competitive edge for recruitment.

Conclusion: Flexible workplaces attract top talent

Flexible work and the technology it requires are needed in the majority of working environments. There is demand from both existing employees and new recruits for flexible working. As the workforce is increasingly prioritizing work-life balance, businesses that invest in tools that support hybrid or remote working are standing out.

Investing in tools like virtual collaboration platforms, advanced recruitment systems, and remote device management puts businesses out there as forward-thinking organizations that value both innovation and employee well-being.

The message is clear: flexibility is a competitive advantage. In a job market driven by talent, organizations that align their strategies to meet the needs of the modern workforce are going to attract the best candidates–and retain them.

Harnessing flexible work technology: a key strategy to talent attraction